Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 small yellow onion, sliced; 8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 1¼ cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch; 2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach; ¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream or cashew cream); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 small lemon, juiced; ¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is one of my all-time favorites. It brings together the rich flavors of tomatoes, creamy texture from vegan cream cheese, and the satisfying bite of white beans. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this stew is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy a nourishing meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, over rice, or on its own, it’s bound to become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this stew fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
Flavor Packed: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil creates a delightful taste that will leave you craving more.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with protein from white beans and vitamins from greens, this stew is as healthy as it is comforting.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a cozy lunch or dinner option. It’s great for meal prep too!
Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture and mild flavors, making it an ideal dish for everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe calls for simple and wholesome components that you might already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating that creamy and comforting flavor.

For the Stew

1 small yellow onion, sliced
8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1¼ cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream or cashew cream)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 small lemon, juiced
¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Variations

One of the best parts about this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Make It Heartier: Stir in some cooked quinoa or brown rice before serving for a more filling meal.
Swap the Greens: Experiment with different greens like kale or Swiss chard for varied flavors.

How to Make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Tomatoes

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. When hot, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook them down for another 5 minutes. This step allows the tomatoes to soften beautifully and release their natural sweetness—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Now it’s time to boost those flavors! Add minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste into the pan. Stir constantly for about one minute until fragrant. This will deepen those comforting flavors we love so much.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

In a separate small bowl, whisk together arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth until smooth. Then mix this back into the rest of your broth before pouring it into the pan along with those delicious beans. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Stir in Creaminess

Once your stew has thickened nicely, stir in the vegan cream cheese (or any alternative you’ve chosen). Mix well until it’s fully melted into that gorgeous stew base. Then fold in your baby greens and let them wilt down—this only takes about a minute! Finally, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste your stew and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly sliced basil before serving. I love enjoying this stew over rice or quinoa but feel free to savor it on its own too—it’s delightful any way you choose!

And there you have it! A bowl of warmth and comfort that’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Creating the perfect Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is a breeze with a few handy tips!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your stew, making it more satisfying and delicious.
Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer longer, or add more arrowroot starch mixed with broth. This helps achieve the desired consistency without compromising flavor.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to customize your stew. This adds depth and complexity, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Make it ahead of time: This stew tastes even better the next day! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal option for meal prep.
Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

Serving this comforting stew can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to present your dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

Fresh basil: A sprinkle of sliced basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes gives your stew an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy stew, completing your meal with a satisfying crunch.
Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stew while providing extra protein and fiber.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies make for a hearty side that complements the flavors of the stew beautifully while adding nutrition.
Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes an excellent base for this stew, soaking up all that delicious tomato and bean goodness.

Enjoy crafting your own version of this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew! It’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand while remaining nourishing and delicious. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

Let the stew cool before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to keep track!

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Add a splash of vegetable broth if it appears too thick.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delightful stew.

Can I make Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew without sun-dried tomatoes?

Absolutely! If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes on hand, you can omit them or substitute with extra fresh tomatoes or a dash of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

How can I make my Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of your favorite hot sauce while cooking to give it a nice kick!

What can I serve with Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew?

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or simply enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew brings warmth and comfort to your table. It’s such a special recipe that combines simplicity with nourishing ingredients—perfect for any day! Enjoy making this delicious dish, and feel free to share your thoughts or variations. Happy cooking!

Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Creamy Tomato White Bean Stew, a delightful dish that combines rich tomato flavors with creamy white beans. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, bringing together wholesome ingredients in just 25 minutes. Packed with protein from white beans and vibrant greens, this stew is nutritious without sacrificing taste. Serve it over rice, pair it with crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own—either way, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

Scale

1 small yellow onion, sliced
8 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1¼ cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon arrowroot starch, tapioca starch, or cornstarch
2 cups baby greens, like baby arugula or spinach
¼ cup vegan cream cheese (or coconut cream or cashew cream)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 small lemon, juiced
¼ cup fresh basil, sliced, to garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, sauté sliced onion in oil until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk arrowroot starch with a splash of vegetable broth in a separate bowl. Mix it back into the remaining broth and add to the pan along with drained cannellini beans. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Stir in vegan cream cheese until melted. Fold in baby greens and let them wilt for about 1 minute. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the stew before serving.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, garnishing with fresh basil.